From £570 per night
Villa Oia is a lovingly renovated sea captain’s house in Santorini, originally built in one of the village’s most privileged spots to overlook Ammoudi Bay.
In days past, prosperous captains stood here to watch their ships arrive safely and keep a watchful eye for pirates. Perched high on the cliffside with views down to Oia castle and the bay below, this historic property now offers refined luxury amenities for up to eight guests, where the sense of its seafaring past lingers softly in every corner.
The entrance-level front terrace — the villa’s original outdoor space — holds a peaceful dining area that feels steeped in history. A small private ‘Aegean Balcony’ terrace on the first level provides another quiet place to sit and take in the scenery. From the kitchen, stairs lead up to the generous upper-level rooftop terrace, centred around a beautiful stone-built heated outdoor jacuzzi. Here, an alfresco lounge area, wooden deck with sofas, sun loungers, and an umbrella create a naturally special space, framed by local wood and stone and blessed with uninterrupted sunset and volcano views.
Inside, the villa has been restored to the highest standard, harmonising vaulted ceilings and hand-finished oak floors with antique furnishings and vintage chandeliers for a quietly regal atmosphere. On the entrance level, spacious living rooms flow into two king-size bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and a fully equipped modern kitchen. A stylish semi-outdoor dining table and comfortable chairs invite long, relaxed meals. Upstairs, two queen-size bedrooms share a bathroom, while a loft kitchenette adds gentle flexibility for families or friends sharing the space.
From its cliffside perch, Villa Oia makes exploring some of Santorini’s most cherished places wonderfully simple. Ammoudi Bay lies just a short walk down the village steps — perfect for a leisurely fish lunch by the water or an early evening drink at sea level. When you’re ready to return, a quick cab ride spares the climb. For a quieter beach day, Baxedes on the east coast offers black volcanic sand, palm-leaf sunshades, and peaceful views toward Anafi — a gentle contrast to the caldera side.